Read Topic Then Question & Answer Guide (With Explanation)
This type of question evaluates analytical and critical thinking skills.
What This Question Is About
This question relates to read topic then and requires a structured academic response.
How to Approach This Question
Use appropriate theories and support your answer with clear reasoning.
Key Explanation
This topic involves read topic then. A strong answer should include explanation, application, and examples.
Original Question
Read topic then classmates response. Reply to classmate in 150-200 words adding depth to the discussion. To receive credit you must cite one recent reference that is different from the original post and ask a question to further the discussion. Cite and reference in APA 7th edition: Topic 5 DQ 2 (Obj. 5.2; CD: K)May 22-26, 2025 In many states, marijuana is now legal for certain medical purposes. Identify some clinical issues that may now present themselves because of legalization. What prevention efforts are important to help individuals prevent developing a cannabis use disorder? What if you have a client who is addicted to alcohol and narcotics, who is also using marijuana to help with chronic pain? How might you address this situation? How does the Flexibility disposition (GCU Counselor Dispositions) connect to the use of cannabis by a client that has SUD issues? Discuss the importance of applying crisis management skills and collaboration with other professionals. CLASSMATES REPLY- As more states legalize marijuana for medical use, it’s important for us as future counselors to hold space for the real reasons people turn to it—while also being mindful of how it may impact clients who are living with substance use disorders (SUDs). I don’t believe cannabis is inherently harmful, especially when it’s used with medical guidance and in moderation. But I do think it can raise clinical concerns, particularly when someone is using it to cope with chronic pain alongside other substances like alcohol or narcotics. One challenge is that some individuals may not fully understand the potential for cannabis dependence. While it’s often viewed as safer than other substances—and for many, it may be—there’s still a risk of developing problematic patterns, especially with daily use or high-THC products (Hasin et al., 2015). That’s why prevention efforts should center on education, not judgment. By helping clients explore both the benefits and risks of cannabis in an open, respectful way, we can support informed, empowered decision-making (Winters et al., 2018). If I were working with a client who struggles with alcohol and narcotic use but is also using marijuana for chronic pain, I would approach them with compassion and curiosity. I’d want to understand how cannabis fits into their pain management plan—what’s helping, what’s not, and what they’ve tried in the past. I wouldn’t immediately push for full abstinence if that isn’t where they are in their journey. Instead, I’d explore harm reduction strategies, assess for any red flags of cannabis use disorder, and collaborate with medical providers to offer a more comprehensive, integrated approach to their care (Klimas et al., 2018). The GCU Counselor Disposition of Flexibility is especially relevant here. It reminds us that every client’s healing process is different. We may have our own clinical preferences or beliefs, but flexibility means we’re able to adjust, listen, and make space for what the client needs most at this time in their life. It’s not about rigidly applying textbook models—it’s about staying present and adaptable in the therapeutic relationship. Crisis management skills are also essential in this kind of work. If a client is using multiple substances, there’s always a possibility that they could reach a tipping point—physically, emotionally, or mentally. Being able to assess risk, create safety plans, and respond calmly in high-stress situations is part of our ethical duty. And we can’t do this work alone. Collaborating with physicians, addiction specialists, and even family members when appropriate helps create a strong safety net for the client, especially when things feel unstable. At the end of the day, I believe our role is to support healing—not to shame, push, or diagnose prematurely. And when we approach each client with empathy, flexibility, and a willingness to work as a team, that’s when the real change begins. References Hasin, D. S., Saha, T. D., Kerridge, B. T., Goldstein, R. B., Chou, S. P., Zhang, H., … & Grant, B. F. (2015). Prevalence of marijuana use disorders in the United States between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013. JAMA Psychiatry, 72(12), 1235-1242. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2015.1858 Klimas, J., Fairgrieve, C., Tobin, H., Field, C. A., O’Gorman, C. S., Glynn, L. G., … & Cullen, W. (2018). Psychosocial interventions to reduce alcohol consumption in concurrent problem alcohol and illicit drug use: A systematic review. Addiction, 113(6), 1001-1010. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.14173 Winters, K. C., Botzet, A. M., & Fahnhorst, T. (2018). Prevention and treatment of adolescent marijuana problems. Adolescent Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, 29(3), 477-491.
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